Zamalek beat Pinheiros 28-27 to reach Club World Cup bronze-medal match

Zamalek defeated Brazilian side Pinheiros 28-27 in their final group-stage match at the Club World Cup to qualify for the game for third place and the bronze medal.

The winners of the match were guaranteed a place in the third- and fourth-place play-off, with Zamalek ultimately securing their progress after a closely contested finish.

Zamalek made the stronger start, opening a 4-0 lead after four minutes and 30 seconds. Pinheiros responded quickly, reducing the deficit to 5-4 by seven minutes and 30 seconds.

The Egyptian side restored their advantage and led 9-5 after 13 minutes. Their lead stood at 11-8 after 20 minutes before Zamalek extended it to 13-11 with three minutes and 30 seconds remaining in the first half.

Zamalek went into the interval 16-14 ahead.

Pinheiros continued to challenge after the restart, and the margin was down to one goal at 20-19 after 39 minutes and 15 seconds.

Zamalek then re-established control, moving four goals clear at 24-20 after 43 minutes. The Brazilian team remained within reach, but Zamalek led 27-25 with five minutes and 26 seconds left.

The final stages were tight, yet Zamalek held on to win 28-27 and secure their place in the bronze-medal match.